Recent Advances in Robotics and Intelligent Robots Applications, 2nd Edition

Dear Colleagues, 

Continuing on from the success of the first edition, this Special Issue aims to explore groundbreaking advancements in the fields of computer vision, robotics, and intelligent systems, particularly for applications in space. In this Special Issue, we seek to address the latest challenges and innovations across a wide range of intelligent space applications, from space robot control to unmanned field exploration, in-orbit imaging and control, novel optical sensing and instruments, and so forth. 

The rapid advancements in reusable rocket technology, low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites, and efforts in lunar and Mars exploration have spurred the development of cutting-edge robotics and AI technologies for applications in space. Intelligent control in space involves the use of AI and advanced control algorithms to autonomously manage satellites, rovers, and spacecraft in real time and adapt to changing environments with minimal human intervention. In-orbit imaging technology is used to monitor climate and environmental changes, urban development, and natural disasters. Instruments for space applications encompass a wide range of tools designed to gather data from space environments, including spectrometers, radiometers, imaging cameras, and lidar systems, which are used to analyze planetary atmospheres, surfaces, and interstellar phenomena. Therefore, innovations in the miniaturization and development of multifunctional robots are expanding the possibilities for space exploration.

This second edition aims to present a broad range of cutting-edge research topics about space robotics and intelligent system that includes, but is not limited to:

• Advanced special robot design: novel hardware configurations, including collaborative robots (cobots) and robots designed for specific environments such as space or underwater;
• Artificial intelligence and machine learning: applications of AI and deep learning in robot perception, decision-making, and autonomous navigation in complex environments;
• Machine vision and image processing: development of new algorithms for visual-SLAM, object recognition and tracking, and smart sensors;
• Autonomous systems: advances in unmanned vehicles, drones, and other autonomous systems in complex environments;
• Smart optical sensors and computational imaging: device-level innovative optical sensors, multi-dimensional optical sensing, and new algorithm development for imaging in extreme environments;
• Novel space camera design: innovative design and development of camera architecture and lens and mechanics design for ariel imaging and space photography applications.

We invite researchers and practitioners from across the globe to submit their original research articles, review papers, and short communications to foster a collective exchange of ideas and advancements in space robotics and intelligent technology. We hope that this Special Issue not only provides valuable insights, but serves as an inspiration to expand the boundaries of the entire scientific community around intelligent space systems.

Prof. Dr. Qi Song
Dr. Fengwei Guan
Dr. Qinglei Zhao
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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